Everything You Need to Know About Breast Augmentation [Types, Risks, and Recovery]

Are you thinking of breast implants or breast surgery?

Breast augmentation has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures for individuals looking to enhance their breast size and shape. However, understanding the intricacies of breast augmentation surgery is crucial before making any decisions. 

Whether you’re considering saline breast implants or silicone breast implants, knowing the potential risks, including breast implant illness and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, is vital for ensuring long-term health and satisfaction. 

This guide aims to equip you with essential information on the different types of breast implants, the recovery process, and how to choose the right plastic surgeon for your needs.

What is a breast augmentation surgery?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery or plastic surgery procedure that enhances breast size and shape. This procedure offers a range of options to meet individual aesthetic preferences, including different types of breast implants, such as saline and silicone. 

However, before undergoing breast augmentation, it is essential to understand the risks, recovery process, and available implant options for this plastic surgery.

Is breast augmentation the same as breast enlargement?

Breast augmentation and breast enlargement are often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences in context.

Breast augmentation refers specifically to the surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. It can involve implants (saline or silicone) or a fat tissue transfer breast augmentation to increase breast volume. The term “augmentation” emphasizes the process of making the breasts larger or improving their appearance.

Breast enlargement, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to the general increase in breast size, which could occur through various means—not just surgery. For example, breast enlargement can also happen naturally due to hormonal changes, weight gain, or certain medical treatments.

In short, while both terms are related, breast augmentation specifically refers to the surgical procedure, whereas breast enlargement could refer to any process resulting in larger breasts.

Types of Breast Implants

When considering breast augmentation surgery, it’s vital to understand the different types of breast implants. There are two primary types: saline breast implants and silicone breast implants.

Saline Breast Implant

A saline implant is filled with sterile salt water, which provides a firm feel. They are generally more affordable and can be adjusted during surgery to achieve the desired breast volume. However, saline implants are more prone to rippling, which can affect the breast’s natural appearance.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, which mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Silicone gel implants offer a more natural look and feel but may pose more significant risks, such as silicone breast implant rupture. Regular checkups with a plastic surgeon are necessary to ensure the implant remains intact in a breast augmentation patient.

Newer options include gummy bear breast implants, which are a type of highly cohesive silicone implant. They maintain their shape even if the shell breaks, offering a more stable and durable choice for breast augmentation patients. Round breast implants are also available for those who prefer a fuller look at the top of the breast, while shaped implants provide a more anatomical appearance.

Another option is fat transfer breast augmentation, where fat is taken from other parts of the body and injected into the breasts. This approach can offer a more natural enhancement without using implants, though it may not provide as much of an increase in breast size.

Risks of Breast Augmentations and Breast Implants

While breast augmentation can improve appearance and boost confidence, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved in breast implant surgery. Some potential complications include:

Capsular Contracture

This condition occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant, causing the breast to harden or change shape. Severe cases may require implant removal or revision surgery.

Breast Implant Rupture

Both saline and silicone gel implants can rupture. With saline-filled implants, the body absorbs the saline solution, while silicone ruptures may not be as easily detectable and can lead to silicone implant rupture. Regular checkups with a board-certified plastic surgeon are necessary to monitor the condition of the implants.

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Some women report experiencing symptoms like breast pain, fatigue, or autoimmune conditions after receiving breast implants, leading to the emergence of BII. Though BII isn’t fully understood, patients experiencing symptoms should consult their surgeon.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)

This rare breast cancer of the immune system has been linked to textured breast implants. It’s critical to discuss this risk with your plastic surgeon before choosing implants.

Other risks include infection, implant shell rupture, and changes in nipple sensation. General anesthesia also carries its own set of risks during implant surgery.

Is breast augmentation a minor surgery?

Breast augmentation is not considered a minor surgery. It is a major cosmetic surgery that involves several complex steps, including implant insertion and, in some cases, altering breast tissue or positioning the implants under the chest muscles (pectoral muscle).

The procedure typically requires general anesthesia and takes several hours, depending on factors such as the type of breast implants chosen (e.g., gummy bear breast implants or round implants).

Though the procedure is common, the recovery process and potential complications, such as implant shell rupture or issues with the breast muscle or chest muscle, mean it should not be taken lightly.

Additionally, patients who receive silicone implants or undergo breast augmentation may need ongoing check-ups with a cosmetic surgeon to ensure the integrity of the implants, whether they opt for traditional implants or newer versions.

As with all surgical procedures, breast augmentation requires careful planning and should be performed by an experienced plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon to minimize risks and achieve desired results, particularly when addressing sagging breasts or performing breast reconstruction.

Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation or Breast Implants

The recovery process following breast implant surgery varies from patient to patient. Typically, the procedure requires wearing a surgical bra to support the breasts and reduce swelling during the healing phase. Drainage tubes may be inserted temporarily to remove excess fluid from the surgical area.

Most patients can resume light activities after a few days but should avoid strenuous exercise for at least six weeks. Proper care is essential to avoid complications such as capsular contracture or implant movement.

Patients are advised to attend follow-up appointments with their plastic surgeon regularly to ensure proper healing. In some cases, scar tissue may form around the implants, requiring further treatment.

How much is breast augmentation in the Philippines?

The cost of breast augmentation or breast implants in the Philippines can vary significantly based on the clinic, the type of implants used, and the surgeon’s expertise. 

On average, prices range from ₱90,000 to ₱200,000. For example, standard procedures using saline breast implants typically cost between ₱90,000 and ₱150,000, while more advanced options like Motiva implants or gummy bear breast implants can range from ₱150,000 to ₱200,000. 

The total cost often includes the implant shell, sterile salt water (for saline implants), surgeon’s fees, operating room costs, and anesthesia. Clinics in major cities like Manila, such as St. Luke’s Medical Center and Belo Medical Group, are known for their high-quality services and experienced surgeonswith high expertise in breast implants.

For anyone considering the procedure, it’s important to factor in additional costs for post-operative care, such as medications, follow-up consultations, and possible implant maintenance or revision surgeries.

Choosing the Right Surgeon for Breast Augmentation

Selecting an experienced plastic surgeon is one of the most critical steps in ensuring the success of your breast augmentation surgery. A board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in breast augmentation can help guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring that you choose the best implant type for your needs and understand the risks involved.

Make sure to discuss all aspects of the breast implant procedure, including potential complications like breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma and the possibility of needing additional surgeries, such as a breast lift or implant replacement, later in life.

Final Thoughts on Breast Augmentation

Whether you’re considering saline implants, silicone breast implants, or gummy bear implants, understanding the full scope of breast augmentation is crucial to making an informed decision.

By choosing the right implant type, discussing all possible risks, and working with a qualified plastic surgeon, you can achieve the results you desire while minimizing complications.

Cath

Cath initially pursued a Doctor of Medicine degree but eventually shifted her focus to writing. While she remains passionate about health and wellness, she also explores beauty and fashion as a creative outlet. Her diverse interests empower her to blend scientific insight with artistic expression.